Boating & Things to Do in Exuma

Moriah Harbour Cay offers a pristine anchorage experience with its crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape, away from the hustle and bustle. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the serene marine environment.

Exuma Yacht Club Hotel & Marina is a cornerstone of the George Town boating community, offering a protected harbor, floating docks, and slips accommodating vessels up to 150 feet. The marina provides top-notch services including gasoline and diesel fuel, fresh water, ice, and stable guest WiFi. Located right on Queen's Highway, it is situated within walking distance of central George Town's supermarkets, provisioning hubs, and dining. It serves as an active cruiser hangout and ideal base for exploring the Exumas.

Established in 1953 by Hugh & Florine Smith, Pink Pearl Grocery Store is a historic community pillar on Staniel Cay, located on Hansel Drive. Now owned and managed by their daughter Eleanor Smith, this family-run store is beloved for its friendly service and for offering some of the best prices on the island. While stock can be limited and island prices are expectedly high due to the remote location, it remains a highly reliable resupply stop for cruising boaters.

Dog Rocks is one of the most dramatic wall dives in the Bahamas. Located in the Exuma Sound, it features vertical drop-offs starting at 40 feet, deep swim-throughs, black corals, and regular pelagic shark sightings.

Pig Beach, nestled in the Bahamas, is a unique and vibrant destination known for its bright white sands and the charming population of swimming pigs that inhabit its shores. This beach offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience where they can interact with these friendly creatures in crystal-clear turquoise waters. The soft white sand provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and capturing memorable photos. Visitors can enjoy feeding the pigs, swimming alongside them, and soaking in the natural beauty of this extraordinary location.

Andrews Laundry, also known as Staniel Cay Laundromat & Liquormart, provides a unique combination of laundry services and a liquor store, making it a convenient stop for cruisers. Located within walking distance from Staniel Cay Yacht Club, it's an ideal spot to handle laundry needs while picking up beverages for your journey. The dual-purpose facility ensures that your stop is both productive and enjoyable.

Elizabeth Harbour is a stunning natural anchorage renowned for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. Nestled among the cays, it offers a tranquil haven for sailors and boaters alike. The harbour is dotted with vibrant marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring. With its protected waters and picturesque surroundings, it's a favorite among those seeking a peaceful retreat on the water.

Emerald Bay Marina, nestled in a picturesque location, offers a mixed experience for boaters. While the marina staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful, the facilities themselves are in need of significant maintenance. The floating docks, though convenient, are in disrepair, and many lack essential services like power and water. Despite these challenges, the marina provides free laundry facilities and a well-equipped captain's lounge. Nearby, you'll find a beautiful beach and a golf course within walking distance, adding to the allure of the location. However, access to resort amenities is limited and comes at a steep price. Overall, it's a place where the warmth of the staff shines through, but the infrastructure could use some attention. (VHF Channel 16)

242 Prime Spirits is a modern, beautifully designed beverage and spirits boutique located on Queen's Highway in George Town. Situated a short walk from the Victoria Harbour dinghy dock, it offers cruising boaters an upscale selection of fine wines, premium rums, and high-quality spirits, making it an excellent stop for curating your onboard beverage collection.

Compass Cay Marina & Resort is a stunning marina destination nestled in the Exumas, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the unique experience of swimming with friendly nurse sharks. Visitors are drawn to its serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. The marina offers essential amenities such as dockage, water, ice, and wifi, ensuring a comfortable stay for transient boaters. While the marina lacks a full-service restaurant, it provides a delightful dining experience with the famous 'Tucker Burger' right on the dock. The marina staff are known for their helpfulness, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Sand Dollar Beach is a hidden gem known for its stunning Bahama-like white sands and crystal-clear blue waters. This secluded beach offers a perfect escape for those looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The sandbar provides a unique underwater landscape, transitioning from knee-deep to over 15 feet within a short distance, making it ideal for both swimming and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Haulover Bay Bar & Grill Restaurant is a highly scenic, authentic waterfront eatery located in Rolletown, Great Exuma. Run by a wonderful family—a mother with her son and daughter—it offers some of the most hospitable service, incredible drinks, and fantastic Bahamian food with spectacular views of the turquoise flats. For captains planning a visit, keep in mind that due to the extremely shallow surrounding waters, this spot is best suited for vessels 24 feet or smaller. While there is no official marina dock, you can safely tie your smaller boat or dinghy directly to their deck structure, or drop anchor nearby in the shallow flats and wade or dinghy ashore.

John Marshall Liquor Store is a highly convenient provisioning stop located in central George Town, just steps away from the Exuma Markets dinghy dock. It is a well-stocked and highly popular destination for cruising boaters, offering a wide selection of local and imported beers, wines, and spirits at competitive prices. It's the perfect quick stop to restock your vessel's bar while loading up on groceries.

The Exuma Sand Bar is a breathtaking destination known for its surreal beauty, featuring the clearest waters surrounded by vibrant blue and turquoise hues. This sandbar is a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful escape and an ideal spot for photography. It's a family-friendly location where visitors can enjoy swimming and possibly spot dolphins in the area.

Sea Spray Resort & Marina is a vibrant nautical destination located on Elbow Cay, offering a blend of leisure and convenience for boaters. With its private marina, this spot is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere with excellent service. The on-site restaurant and open-air bar provide a delightful culinary experience, featuring unique dishes like the bang bang lobster tacos. While the marina staff receive high praise for their service, be mindful of the laundry service pricing. The marina boasts a beautiful view of anchored boats, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

Thunderball Villas & Docks offers a premier marina experience in the Bahamas, known for its seamless docking process and prime location. Boaters can enjoy easy access to local attractions and activities, making it an ideal spot for both exploration and relaxation. The marina accommodates large vessels and provides stunning sunset views, enhancing the overall experience. Additional amenities like golf cart rentals make island exploration convenient and enjoyable.

The Cut, also known as Lazy River Beach, is a hidden gem in Exuma, offering a serene and picturesque beach experience. This location is renowned for its unique lazy river that flows with the tide, providing a relaxing float experience. The beach is accessible by boat, kayak, or even by land, making it a versatile destination for adventurers. At low tide, the expansive sandbar is exposed, offering a perfect spot for exploration and relaxation. The area is family-friendly and known for its stunning natural beauty, making it a prime photo spot. Visitors often encounter turtles and other marine life, adding to the magical experience of this secluded beach.

Governor's Harbour Beach is a serene escape with its stunning clear turquoise waters and soft sandy shores. Nestled along the road by Governor's Harbour bay, this beach offers a tranquil setting perfect for relaxation. With palms providing shade and a picnic table available, it's an inviting spot for a leisurely day by the water.

Stingray Reef is a vibrant underwater haven teeming with a rich variety of soft and hard corals. This thriving ecosystem provides shelter for a diverse array of Atlantic reef fish, spotted moray eels, and lobsters, making it a captivating dive spot for marine enthusiasts. The site offers a serene diving experience, ideal for those looking to explore the colorful and lively underwater world.

Cape Eleuthera Resort & Marina offers a serene escape for boaters seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The marina provides essential services like fuel and water, although some amenities like the pump-out may occasionally be unavailable. The resort's beachfront bungalows offer a picturesque setting, perfect for a short, relaxing stay. While dining options are limited to one on-site restaurant, the peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings make it a worthwhile stop for those looking to unwind.

Rachel's Bath is a captivating natural pool located near Staniel Cay, offering a unique and exhilarating experience for visitors. Known for its crystal clear waters and the natural wave action that creates a 'bubble bath' effect, this spot is perfect for families and snorkel enthusiasts. The area is accessible by a short dinghy or rental boat ride, followed by a brief walk from the beach. Visitors are advised to wear proper footwear for the rocky terrain. The pool is best enjoyed during incoming tide when the water rushes in, creating an exciting and refreshing environment. With opportunities to observe marine life and capture stunning photos, Rachel's Bath is a must-visit destination for those exploring the natural beauty of the Bahamas.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club is a charming marina located in the heart of the Exumas, offering a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation and exploration. Known for its excellent dining options, including a bar with a lively vibe and a formal restaurant, the club provides a welcoming environment for transient boaters and visitors alike. The marina is equipped with essential amenities such as dockage, fuel for gas-powered boats, and provisioning nearby. Guests can enjoy the local scene, watch marine life like sharks under the boat lights at night, and take advantage of the club's proximity to attractions like Pig Beach. With its friendly staff and unique island charm, Staniel Cay Yacht Club is a must-visit destination for those cruising through the Bahamas.

Exuma Markets is the premier grocery store and supermarket in George Town, Great Exuma. Highly optimized for cruising boaters, it features a dedicated and highly convenient dinghy dock behind the store in Victoria Harbour. Boaters can anchor in Elizabeth Harbour, navigate their dinghies into the harbour, tie up securely at the dock, and load groceries and fresh water directly into their dinghies. The market is fully stocked with fresh produce, meats, baked goods, dairy, and all essential provisions. Also, you can throw out trash in an open truck by the dinghy dock with L&L disposal for a small fee.

Little Farmer's Cay Yacht Club is a quaint marina that captures the essence of the Bahamas with its friendly atmosphere and local charm. Managed by the delightful Roosevelt and Shirley, this spot offers solid mooring and a chance to indulge in authentic Bahamian dishes like Shirley's famous cracked conch. While the facilities may not be luxurious, the marina provides a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions such as the Musician Mermaid and Rudder Cay caves. It's a place where you can truly unwind and experience the Bahamas as they used to be.

Burke's Convenience Store is a vital provisioning hub for boaters on Staniel Cay, stocking groceries, ice, drinks, and fishing bait. Cruisers can access the store by docking or mooring at Staniel Cay Yacht Club and walking over, or by landing a dinghy directly onto the nearby beach.

Exuma Yacht Club Restaurant and Bar is a lively marina stop known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views. While the service can sometimes be slow, the delicious food and live music more than make up for it. It's a great spot to relax, enjoy a cold beer, and take in the beautiful surroundings. The restaurant is particularly popular on Wednesdays for its live music featuring talented local performers.

The Exuma Fish Fry is a legendary waterfront cluster of shacks located just north of George Town, offering an authentic taste of Bahamian culture, music, and food. It is the ultimate local scene where boaters and locals gather. ### Best Options & Boating Tips: * **Docking**: Rent a slip at the Exuma Yacht Club to easily walk to the shacks (about a 15-minute walk north along Queen's Highway or a quick 2-minute taxi ride). * **Anchoring**: Drop anchor in Elizabeth Harbour and use a dinghy to go ashore at the Yacht Club, or pull right up to the sandy shore behind the shacks if the tide permits (mid-to-high tide is recommended). ⚠️ **CRITICAL CRUISER WARNING**: Almost all shacks inside the Fish Fry are **CASH ONLY**. Be sure to stock up on US dollars or Bahamian dollars before visiting, as there are no ATMs on site! ### Restaurants inside the Fish Fry & How to Access: * **Shirley's Seafood Restaurant**: One of the most famous shacks here, known for outstanding coconut shrimp, cracked conch, and lobster. Easily accessed by beaching your dinghy right behind the shacks or walking from the Yacht Club. * **Porgie's Place**: Highly recommended for authentic Bahamian steam fish and peas 'n rice. Located on the ocean side of the cluster, best accessed via a beach landing or road walk. * **Da Out Deck Bar & Grill / Rasta Steve at Da Out Deck**: A lively, friendly hub for grilled dishes and cold drinks. You can dinghy right up to the shoreline behind Da Out Deck at rising tide. * **Wonderation Restaurant & Bar**: Known for excellent local mutton and fried fish, this shack is highly popular on weekend nights. Access via walking Queen's Highway or beach landing. * **The New Hasty's**: A fantastic spot for late-night music, drinks, and local snacks. Conveniently located near the road side of the complex.

Splash Beach Bar & Grill is a vibrant beachfront venue located right at Jolly Hall Bay, offering beautiful sunset views, tropical cocktails, and classic Bahamian-American pub fare. It is a fantastic cruiser hangout. ### How to Get Here & Boating Tips: * **Beaching your Dinghy**: The most common and scenic method is to anchor your vessel in the harbor near Jolly Hall Bay and take a dinghy directly onto the beach, tying up or beaching on the sand. * **Docking at Exuma Yacht Club**: If your vessel requires a proper slip or deeper draft, dock at the Exuma Yacht Club in George Town. From there, it is just a short 5 to 10 minute taxi ride north.

Staniel Cay is a bustling marina destination nestled in the heart of the Exuma Cays, renowned for its vibrant yacht club and convenient amenities. This nautical hub offers everything a sailor might need, from fuel and ice to restrooms and laundry facilities. The marina is a transient-friendly spot with a lively local scene, making it a popular cruiser hangout. Visitors can enjoy on-site dining and explore the nearby village for provisioning opportunities. The marina's strategic location provides easy access to famous attractions such as the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay and the Thunderball Grotto, ensuring a memorable stop for any boating enthusiast.

Thunderball Grotto is a mesmerizing underwater cave located in the Bahamas, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant marine life. This unique snorkeling and scuba diving destination offers an unforgettable experience as you swim through the cave's enchanting waters. The grotto is best visited during incoming tides and calm days to ensure optimal conditions for exploring. Inside, you'll find a breathtaking view reminiscent of a Mexican cenote, with tropical fish swimming beneath you and shy bats hiding above. The grotto is family-friendly, but visitors should exercise caution due to the cave's coral ceiling and potential currents. Snorkels and fins are recommended to enhance your exploration, and guide ropes are available for support.

Bottom Line offers a casual dining experience on Staniel Cay, perfect for boaters looking to enjoy a meal right by the water. The restaurant serves a variety of comfort foods including burgers, fish, chicken, fries, and salads, all in a laid-back atmosphere. Its unique location allows patrons to dinghy directly to the spot, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the area by boat.

Da Sand Bar is a vibrant and relaxed beach bar located on Stocking Island, offering a perfect blend of lively weekends and quieter weekdays. Known for its beautiful setting and chill vibes, this sandbar is a favorite among visitors looking to enjoy a drink, soak in the sun, and meet new people. With beach access and swim-friendly waters, it's an ideal spot for both relaxation and socializing. While food options are limited to grilled hotdogs, the generous drinks and welcoming atmosphere make it a memorable stop. Accessible by dinghy or water taxi, Da Sand Bar is a quintessential beach hangout in Exuma.

French Leave Resort, Autograph Collection, offers a luxurious marina experience nestled in a stunning waterfront setting. This upscale resort features colonial-style villas, an infinity pool, and a gym, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. The marina is known for its attentive staff and well-maintained facilities, making it a top choice for discerning travelers. While the dining experience has received mixed reviews, the overall ambiance and service are highly praised. The resort's private beach is a standout feature, offering a secluded paradise for guests to enjoy.

Moriah Harbor Cay National Park is a breathtaking destination that offers a pristine natural environment perfect for exploration by boat. Visitors rave about its stunning beaches, expansive sandbars, and the opportunity to encounter diverse wildlife, including turtles, crabs, and nurse sharks. This park is a must-visit for those seeking a serene escape into nature's beauty.

Starfish Beach is a stunning and serene destination known for its beautiful stretch of sand and clear waters. It's a family-friendly spot with plenty of loungers and umbrellas available, making it perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Visitors can enjoy the adjacent Starfish Lagoon and grab a drink or a snack at the nearby Da Sand Bar. While starfish sightings have become rare, the beach remains a fantastic place to unwind and capture stunning photos.

Walker's Cay is a storied marina that has risen from the ashes of past hurricanes to reclaim its status as a premier destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Once a beloved haunt for anglers in the 80s and 90s, this compact island has been revitalized, offering a harmonious blend of its rich history and modern amenities. Known for its exceptional fishing opportunities, including spearfishing and deep-sea trolling, Walker's Cay promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure on the water. The marina is well-equipped to cater to transient boaters and those looking to relive the fond memories of its golden days.

Coconut Club is a vibrant waterfront restaurant that offers a lively and family-friendly atmosphere. Accessible by boat or water taxi, this destination is perfect for a day-long retreat with activities like volleyball, corn hole, and large anchored floats. The restaurant provides a variety of food and drink options, including full bottles of liquor for purchase. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beach views and clean, air-conditioned restrooms. While the food receives mixed reviews, the overall experience is enhanced by the numerous activities and the scenic setting.

Highbourne Cay Marina, nestled in the stunning Exumas, is a premier destination for boaters seeking a tranquil and well-equipped marina experience. Known for its protected harbor, this marina ensures a calm docking environment regardless of weather conditions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities including clean restrooms, hot showers, and reliable WiFi. The marina offers fuel services for both gas and diesel, and water is available for a per-gallon charge. On-site dining options include a beautiful restaurant where reservations are recommended, and a charming beach bar with a limited menu. For those looking to explore, free bikes and rentable golf carts are available, allowing easy access to the island's multiple beaches and scenic spots. The marina also features a well-stocked general store for provisioning needs. With its friendly staff and a laid-back atmosphere, Highbourne Cay Marina is a cruiser hangout and a must-visit for those exploring the Exumas. (VHF Channel 71)

The Austin Smith is a 110-foot Bahamian Defense Force cutter that sank in 1995. Originally scheduled to be decommissioned and sunk off Nassau, it sank in transit off Highborne Cay in the Exumas. It lies in 60 feet of water and is now a spectacular wreck dive.

Norman's Cay is a captivating coral atoll known for its clear turquoise waters and wide sandy beaches. It offers a unique snorkeling experience around the sunken plane of Pablo Escobar, surrounded by vibrant marine life. The island is a picturesque spot, perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility in equal measure. With its protected anchorage and stunning views, Norman's Cay is a must-visit destination for snorkelers and beach lovers alike.

Chat 'N' Chill Beach Bar & Grill is a vibrant beach destination known for its lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Accessible by ferry, private boat, or jet ski, this spot offers a unique blend of relaxation and activity with its beach volleyball courts, swings, and opportunities to swim with stingrays. While the food receives mixed reviews, the beach bar's charm and the chance to interact with marine life make it a popular choice for families and friends looking to unwind and enjoy the Bahamian beach vibes.

Man-O-War Cay Sandbar is a breathtaking destination renowned for its stunning beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This sandbar offers a magnificent landscape with many shades of blue water and pristine sand, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography. Visitors often describe it as an 'otherworldly' experience, especially when timed right with the tides. It's an ideal location for those looking to anchor nearby, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy a peaceful day in a less crowded setting.

Tropic Breeze Beach Bar & Grill is a stunning waterfront restaurant located in William's Town on Little Exuma. Renowned for its breathtaking turquoise views and elevated Caribbean-American cuisine (including their famous surf and turf burger), it is a classic cruiser destination. Boaters can anchor in the calm waters outside and dinghy right up onto the sandy beach to dine, similar to other famous Exuma spots like Chat 'N' Chill and Da Sand Bar. It offers a wonderfully relaxed yet upscale beachfront dining experience.

Vantage Pointe offers a delightful dining experience with stunning views and the convenience of docking your boat right at their doorstep. Known for its delicious Bahamian cuisine, including the highly praised grilled lobster, this family-run restaurant provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. While some guests have experienced delays, the overall consensus highlights the exceptional food and picturesque setting as worth the visit.

We anchored at Shroud Cay, a secluded gem within the park and the home of the infamous “Washing Machine.” With Boris attending to work, the kids and I were eager to dive into our next escapade. We boarded our dinghy, slicing through the water towards the mysterious stream that snakes through Shroud Cay. The navigation was tricky; the stream was peppered with shallow areas where the water barely skimmed the bottom of our small boat. It required a vigilant eye and steady hands to maneuver through the crystal-clear water, teeming with sea turtles and darting fish that seemed as curious about us as we were about them. It must be approached at a rising, mid-to-high tide. If you attempt this at low tide, the shallow sandbars will leave you dragging your dinghy or getting stuck.

Moriah Harbour Sandbars offer a breathtaking escape with their pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. This idyllic location is perfect for families and photographers alike, providing a serene atmosphere ideal for swimming and relaxation. Arrive early on calm days to fully enjoy the tranquil beauty of this natural wonder.

Angelfish Blue Hole offers a unique diving experience in an enclosed bay off Stocking Island. This dive site offers diverse marine habitats, making it a fascinating spot for exploration. Divers should be prepared with a flashlight to fully appreciate the underwater features and potential marine encounters.

Norman’s Cay is a small Exuma island with a rich history that has housed pirates, drug lords, filmmakers, and explorers. At its northern end sits the premier Norman’s Cay Marina, constructed with high-quality Brazilian Ipe wood docks. Serving as an official Port of Entry, this state-of-the-art marina features 37 slips (expanding to 63) and can host vessels of all sizes, including 60m+ luxury yachts and deep-draft sailboats. At the heart of the cay, situated on its highest point, is the sophisticated yet relaxed Yacht Club. Boaters can gather here Wednesday through Sunday for signature tropical cocktails, delectable local cuisine, and stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding Exuma waters. Adjacent to the marina, Macduff’s Restaurant offers another legendary beachfront dining option. The marina features an array of premium amenities including transient dockage, a private fuel dock, electricity, fresh water hookups, ice, a general store, courtesy golf carts, a 4,800-foot runway airstrip, pumpout service, and an air-conditioned fish cleaning station.

Seaside Bakery is a charming local spot located on Main Street in Staniel Cay, just a short walk from the Staniel Cay Yacht Club. Known for its fresh bread and delightful local baked goods, this bakery is a must-visit for cruisers looking to enjoy a taste of the island. The bakery tends to get busy, so it's best to arrive early to ensure you get the best selection of treats.

Saint Francis Resort & Marina, nestled on the idyllic Stocking Island, offers a serene retreat for boaters seeking tranquility and exceptional hospitality. Just a short water taxi ride from Great Exuma, this marina is a gateway to breathtaking beaches and calm, crystal-clear waters. The resort features unfussy yet comfortable accommodations with stunning lagoon views, complemented by an airy restaurant and a casual bar that hosts regular live music. With easy access to hiking trails and kayaking opportunities, it's a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Shroud Cay is a captivating island within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse marine ecosystem. This tiny isle is a sanctuary of mangroves, providing a habitat for conch, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species. The island's crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches make it an idyllic spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. With mooring balls available, it's a popular destination for boaters seeking a peaceful retreat. The island's unique waterways and mangrove-lined channels offer opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, making it a versatile destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.